Particulates Pose Threat to Turbine Engines

Part 3 of a series examines strategies to avoid engine damage from airborne particles.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 3:31pm

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This article, the third in a series, explores the risks that airborne particulates pose to turbine engines and the strategies that pilots and aircraft operators can employ to mitigate those risks. The story recounts an incident in 1988 where a Boeing 737 encountered heavy precipitation, leading to engine failure.

Why it matters

Particulate matter, such as dust, sand, and volcanic ash, can cause significant damage to turbine engines if ingested, potentially leading to catastrophic failures. Understanding the threats and developing effective avoidance strategies is crucial for aviation safety.

The details

The article describes how the weather radar on TACA Flight 110 in 1988 detected areas of light-to-moderate precipitation, as well as some isolated heavy precipitation cells, in the aircraft's intended flight path. Despite attempts to avoid the heavy precipitation, the engines on the Boeing 737-300 ultimately failed, requiring an emergency landing.

  • On May 24, 1988, TACA Flight 110 was flying from Belize to New Orleans.

The players

TACA Flight 110

A Boeing 737-300 aircraft flying from Belize to New Orleans.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical importance of understanding and mitigating the risks posed by airborne particulates to turbine engines. Developing effective avoidance strategies and maintaining engine health are essential for ensuring aviation safety.